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Recent speculation has centred on Marco Silva, with the Watford boss the top target for the job. Everton’s official approach was rejected last week, with no further progress made since.

But a glance at the latest betting odds show the name Louis van Gaal intriguingly placed as third favourite, behind Silva and Unsworth.

The former Manchester United boss is as short as 10/3 with some bookmakers, thanks to a sudden influx of bets.

David Unsworth, caretaker manager of Everton, looks on prior to the UEFA Europa League Group E match between Olympique Lyon and Everton FC at Stade de Lyon on November 2, 2017 (Image: Getty Images Europe)

Van Gaal has been out of work since being sacked the day after guiding United to FA Cup glory in May 2016 - Evertonians will remember his side beating theirs in the semi final that season.

His time at Old Trafford ended on a high, though was not without its issues, with the Dutchman’s style of play and confrontational character attracting criticism.

United spent heavily under van Gaal, breaking their transfer record to sign Angel Di Maria and bringing in the likes of Luke Shaw, Morgan Schneiderlin, Ander Herrera, Memphis Depay, Daley Blind and Radamel Falcao - a mixed bag in terms of successes and failures.

Another new name was linked with Everton this week, with former Algeria and Rennes coach Christian Gourcuff touted as a potential target by Canal Plus in France report the Liverpool Echo.